Milk of Magnesia

Information about Milk of Magnesia

Milk of Magnesia Uses

Milk of Magnesia is used in constipation.

How Milk of Magnesia works

Milk of Magnesia works by drawing water into the intestine through osmosis, which makes the stool soft and easier to pass.

Common side effects of Milk of Magnesia

Diarrhea, Stomach cramp
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Written By
MMST, MBBS
Reviewed By
MD (Pharmacology), MBBS
Last updated
18 Feb 2020 | 11:52 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Milk of Magnesia

6 to ₹1044 variant(s)

Expert advice for Milk of Magnesia

  • Milk of Magnesia is used for the treatment of constipation.
  • It should preferably be taken at bedtime as it requires 6 to 8 hours to show effect.
  • It is usually taken once a day as needed for up to 2 weeks. Take it exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
  • Some healthy tips to prevent constipation from happening:
    • Eat more fiber in your diet. Recommended daily intake is 20-35g
    • Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day
    • Exercise regularly at least 3 times per week
    • Do not hold in stool as that can worsen bowel issues
  • Take it atleast 2 hours after taking other medicines, as it may interfere with the absorption of other medicines.
  • Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach disorders such as appendicitis or a blockage in your bowel.

Frequently asked questions for Milk of Magnesia

Milk of Magnesia

Q. Is it safe to take Milk of Magnesia daily?

Milk of Magnesia should be taken only as advised by the doctor. Milk of Magnesia is safe to use for minor or occasional cases of constipation. It is not for long-term use. Using it regularly may cause the body to become dependent on it, making it difficult for a person to pass stools without using Milk of Magnesia.

Q. Will Milk of Magnesia cleanse your colon?

Milk of Magnesia rapidly cleanse the bowel by causing a watery diarrhea. It works by pulling more water into the intestines, which is called osmosis. When there is more water in the intestines, the stool becomes softer or even watery and is easier to pass.

Q. How long does it take for Milk of Magnesia to start working?

Milk of Magnesia usually starts working within 30 minutes to 3 hours. It works by increasing the fluid in the small intestine, thus making stools softer and easier to pass. As a result, a bowel movement is stimulated by causing a watery diarrhea.

Q. Is Milk of Magnesia safe for adults and toddlers?

Milk of Magnesia is safe for adults and toddlers if used as recommended. However, its safety is not evaluated in children below 3 years. In case of any side effects, consult your doctor.

Q. Is Milk of Magnesia habit-forming?

Milk of Magnesia should be used in the prescribed dose. It is usually recommended to be used in cases of occasional constipation and not for long term use. Using it regularly may cause the body to become dependent on it, making it difficult for a person to pass stools without using Milk of Magnesia.

Q. What are the side effects of Milk of Magnesia?

Milk of Magnesia may cause nausea, flatulence (gas), bloating, dehydration or temporary weight loss due to diarrhea, as the most common side effects of this medicine. However, these are usually not bothersome, but if they do not resolve, please consult your doctor.

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